Abnormal glucose tolerance in children: oral glucose tolerance test is fit-for-purpose

Abstract

Aim: Childhood obesity is accompanied by an increased prevalence of abnormal glucose tolerance (AGT) including the prediabetes states. This study aims to investigate and evaluate the use of oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) for detecting AGT among overweight and obese children. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 895 overweight and obese Chinese children (6–18 years) with obesity assessment and analysis of demographic, anthropometric, and biochemical parameters data between January 2006 and December 2015 at Tseung Kwan O Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Results: The proportion of males and older age group was 63.7% and 55.9%, respectively. Girls were more in older age groups (62.7% vs. 52.0%, P = 0.002). AGT occurred in 17.1% of the cohort [impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) was the most frequent morbidity (11.3%)]. After regression analysis, female sex, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglyceride (TG), older age group, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) ≥ 4.1 were significantly associated with AGT. Conclusions: AGT is common in overweight and obese Chinese children. Girls, older age, higher LDL, TG and HOMA-IR ≥ 4.1 showed significant association with AGT. OGTT is essential and fit-for-purpose to detect AGT in overweight and obese children.